Poly (vinylidene fluoride) solid polymer electrolyte structure revealed by secondary ion mass spectrometry

Abstract

Due to the processability safety, polymer-matrix composites can be considered as a solid polymer electrolytes and have attracted widespread attention. However, their electrical properties, as low ionic conductivity cannot meet the requirements of practical applications. Using the high energy mixing technique, the ionic conductivity was increased from 1.6 × 10 −6 to 9.4 × 10 −5 S cm −1 . The application of the Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry technique revealed the distribution of lithium ions in the structure of the polymer matrix, which allows to directly connect the conductive properties and the homogeneity of the polymer composite. • High energy mixing technique increased conductivity of solid polymer electrolytes. • Increased conductivity results from changes in the structure of the composites. • Changes were detected and confirmed using the SIMS technique. • Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry technique is an effective tool to assess charge carriers localization in composite materials.